International Writing – The conflict between the United States and Israel against Iran escalated today with a series of Israeli attacks in Tehran and southern Lebanon. Iran threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz and retaliate against US interests in the region if Donald Trump attacks Iranian power plants. Navigation through Hormuz is central to the conflict. Iran declared that it is prepared to close access in response to Trump’s ultimatum, who gave Tehran a 48-hour deadline to allow traffic. Meanwhile, Israel severed communications in southern Lebanon and announced attacks on homes and bridges over the Litani River. The Lebanese president, Joseph Aoun, characterised these actions as the beginning of an invasion. During his speech in St. Peter’s Square, the Pope condemned the war in the Middle East and called for peace and an end to hostilities. Below is a summary of day 23 of the conflict.
